Tampon Tips No One Tells You (But We Will)

Let’s be real for a sec, learning how to use tampons can feel like trying to do yoga with zero instructions and a time limit.

Most of us didn’t get a helpful guide when we first started, just a vague leaflet and a whole lot of questions. So, here’s everything I wish someone had told me when I was trying to figure tampons out for the first time…

1. It’s all about the angle

You don’t insert a tampon straight up. Your vagina actually tilts backwards, so you’ll want to angle the tampon slightly towards your lower back, not straight up like you’re poking your belly button. Sounds weird, but it makes all the difference. Think: aim diagonally, not vertically.

2. Relax — seriously!!

If you’re tense, your muscles (especially your pelvic ones) tighten, which makes inserting a tampon harder and more uncomfortable. Try taking a few deep breaths. If you’re nervous, try putting on some music or even standing up in the bathroom or even try laying down with a towel underneath you, whatever helps you feel chill. It’s totally okay to take your time.

3. Applicator or no applicator — both are valid

Some tampons come with plastic or cardboard applicators. Others don’t. If you’re just starting out, an applicator (especially a slim plastic one) can make things way easier. Don’t feel like you have to switch to non-applicator straight away. Do whatever feels most comfortable for you.

4. You shouldn’t feel it

Once a tampon is in properly, you actually shouldn’t feel it at all. If it feels uncomfortable, it might not be in far enough. You can either take it out and try again (with a fresh one), or gently push it in a little more with clean hands. If it’s painful, take a break and try again later – no pressure.

5. Size matters

If you’re new to tampons, go for a “lite” or “mini” size. It’s not about your age or your body being “too small” – it’s just gentler when you’re getting used to it. Only move up to a bigger size if you need more absorbency (aka heavier flow days).

6. How to take it out (without panic)

It might feel a bit weird the first few times, but gently tug the string at the same angle you put it in – towards your back, not straight down. If it feels stuck, it might be too dry, which means it wasn’t full yet. Don’t force it – give it more time, or switch to a pad that day.

7. Changing it: trust your gut (and your flow)

You’ll start to get a sense of how often you need to change it, but a general rule is every 4–6 hours. Never leave it in for more than 8 hours. If it’s your first time using one overnight, set a little alarm to remind yourself in the morning – we’ve all forgotten at some point.

8. Where the heck do I put the used tampon?!

Wrap it in toilet paper (or the wrapper of the new one), and pop it in the bin – never the toilet. Flushing it can block pipes (and public toilets are especially bad for this). If you’re out and there’s no bin, keep a small zip pouch in your bag with a bit of tissue and a baggie. Not glamorous, but very smart.

9. It’s okay to take breaks

Some people use tampons every period, others just when swimming or at school. You don’t have to use them every single time. You might prefer pads at night or period pants for chill days. It’s your body – your rules.

Final big sister energy reminder?
Don’t stress if it takes a while to get the hang of it. You’re not doing it “wrong” if it takes a few tries. You’re learning something new about your body, and that’s kind of amazing. And if you ever have questions – Missy’s always here to help.

Want us to do a full step-by-step video? Let us know!

Read More: Everything You Need To Know About Toxic Shock Syndrome

Read More: Tampon Myths